Ephesians 2:11

One in Christ · Ephesians 2:11–18
Read Ephesians 2

Translations

Modern
Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)—
Traditional
Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
Literal
Therefore remember that once you—the Gentiles in the flesh, the ones being called the uncircumcision by that being called the circumcision, done by hands in the flesh—
Latin
Propter quod memores estote quod aliquando vos gentes in carne, qui dicimini præputium ab ea quæ dicitur circumcisio in carne, manu facta:

Original

Greek
English
Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)—

Notes

Traditionally, Jews avoided Gentiles and did not consider them part of God’s people. They called them uncircumcised, meaning they had not received the sign of the covenant (see Genesis 17:9–14). But Paul taught that it is shallow to judge people based only on outward signs. What matters is a person’s heart and faith. In Christ, physical circumcision does not make someone part of God’s family (see Romans 2:28–29).

Paul now focuses on the grace God has given, particularly to Gentiles (non-Jews). God brought them into his family and united them with Jews in a new, unified, multiethnic community. This new community is the body of Christ, the church. Paul’s focus on including Gentiles suggests they might have experienced discrimination from Jewish Christians.

Parallels

Philippians 2:1–4

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Church Circumcision Foreigner Letter to the Ephesians Second Letter to the Thessalonians Sin Uncircumcision

Topics

Circumcision: A Designation of the Jews Circumcision: Abolished by the Gospel Circumcision: Abrogated Circumcision: Called The: Circumcision in the Flesh Circumcision: The Jews: Despised As Unclean Those not of The Depravity of Man: General Scriptures Concerning Gentiles: Excluded from Israel's Privileges The Jews: Despised all Strangers Uncircumcision: General Scriptures Concerning